Dear Friends, This blog is a continuation of, how Lutherans, ELCA, are different (generally) from non-denominational faith communities.
It was drilled into me in Preaching Class at LSTC (Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago). Lutheran Preachers should always preach the Gospel, “The Good News,” because that is what Jesus was all about.
- Law and Gospel Approach:
Lutheran teaching divides scripture into "Law" (what God requires) and "Gospel" (what God gives freely), emphasizing Grace. This approach focuses on comforting the sinner, which we all are, rather than on moralizing or on works. God loves us, no matter where we are, where we have been, or where we are going. God loves us.
It is my hope that my preaching style both teaches and compels us to be more like Jesus. I try to bring into focus our contemporary world news, our community culture, and personal flaws and faux pas that make us human. My hope is to use a little bit of humor to deflect any judgment, lest I be judged. If we are Christian we claim to be both sinner and saint.
It was Martin Luther who coined the term, during the Protestant Reformation, simul justus et peccator (meaning "simultaneously justified and a sinner"). This concept dictates that believers are at once declared righteous by Christ's grace yet remain inherently sinful in their daily lives.
Thanks be to God!
In Faith,
+Pastor Teri